Meet Dr. Megan
Occupational Therapist for Dysautonomia & POTS
Dr. Megan Matthews, OTD, OTR/L, CAS is an occupational therapist who helps children and adults with POTS and dysautonomia. She lives with dysautonomia herself. She sees patients by video anywhere in New York State.
Megan has a longstanding passion for neuroscience and neurophysiology with a bachelor’s of science in Human Biology with a concentration in Neuroscience. As an occupational therapist, she has received training and worked with patients managing a wide variety of neurological conditions, including chronic pain, neurological injury, stroke, Parkinson’s, and a wide variety of developmental delays.
Trainings
- Licensed occupational therapist in New York
- Doctorate in occupational therapy
- Certified Autism Specialist
Occupational therapists focus on daily life: getting dressed, showering, going to school or work, sleeping, and keeping up with the things that matter to you. Occupational therapists are experts at understanding how your condition impacts your ability to function through an ordinary day, and provide treatment to increase your independence and quality of life while living with dysautonomia.
How she helps
Megan recognizes there is a shortage of providers who specialize in dysautonomic condition management. Through Megan, new patients can usually start within a week. Together, you work on:
- Exercise & Nutrition -- Guidance and support with implementing the exercise or dietary protocol your physician has prescribed
- Pacing and energy conservation strategies that fit your life
- Morning routines and showering
- Self-care and meal preparation
- Sleep habits
- Home setup and equipment
- School or work accommodations
- Body awareness
- Nervous system regulation
- A written plan for flares
Working with your medical team
Coordinated care for patients and providers
Your doctor prescribes occupational therapy as part of your medical treatment plan. Megan doesn't diagnose, prescribe medications, or prescribe exercise.
Referring physicians/providers will receive:
- A progress report every 12 weeks, with goal progress reporting
- Coordinated patient care
- A patient with weekly support while they wait for their next visit with you